Cricket

The 2024 Women's T20 World Cup is set to kick off on October 3 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with a thrilling opening match between England and South Africa. The tournament schedule, released on Sunday, promises an exciting and competitive event.Defending champions Australia will begin their title defense on October 4 in Sylhet against one of the qualifiers. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match, always a highlight of the tournament, is scheduled for October 6 in Sylhet.The tournament features 10 teams divided into two groups. Group A consists of Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and one qualifier, while Group B includes South Africa, England, West Indies, Bangladesh, and the other qualifier.The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, which will be held on October 17 in Sylhet and October 18 in Dhaka. The final will take place on October 20 in Dhaka.Bangladesh, which is hosting the tournament for the second time, will be eager to make a strong impression in front of their home crowd. The hosts will open their campaign on the opening day against one of the qualifiers.The Women's T20 World Cup is one of the most prestigious events in women's cricket, and the 2024 edition promises to be no exception. With a talented field of teams and a packed schedule, fans can expect plenty of thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have shown signs of improvement in their bowling department, but they still have a long way to go before they can be considered playoff contenders, according to former India all-rounder Ajay Jadeja.RCB's bowlers played a crucial role in their four-wicket win over Gujarat Titans on Saturday, restricting the opposition to a paltry 148. However, the team's batting lineup once again faltered, losing six wickets in quick succession after a solid start by Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli."The chinks in the armor are visible, what happened at the end," Jadeja said. "But the chance is there. They're off the ventilator but they're still in the ICU."Jadeja praised the bowlers for their performance, saying that it was the "real work" that set up the win. He believes that the bowling department has started to click for RCB, which is crucial for their chances of success in the business end of the season.However, Jadeja cautioned that qualifying for the playoffs remains a "very tough ask" for RCB. He said that the team needs to develop a mentality where they can rely on someone to bail them out of difficult situations.Despite the team's struggles, Jadeja was impressed with RCB's aggressive approach with the bat in the small chase. He said that the team's decision to start the game with two sixes in the first over showed a different mindset."What Faf did, he was operating at a different pace," Jadeja said. "Later, there was some excitement in the match but at no point did it seem like this was (GT win) going to be successful."

MS Dhoni's Global Fanbase: Pakistan's Shahnawaz Dahani Recalls Memorable EncounterFormer Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni's immense popularity extends beyond national boundaries, captivating fans worldwide, including those in neighboring Pakistan. One such ardent admirer is fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani, who recently shared a heartwarming recollection of his meeting with the Indian legend.During the 2021 T20 World Cup, Dhoni served as the Indian team's mentor, providing guidance and support to the players. It was during this time that Dahani had the opportunity to meet his idol. In a video that has resurfaced on social media, Dahani recalls the encounter with great fondness."He is a personality that people all over the world admire," Dahani said. "I am one of his many fans. When I knew we were playing India the following week, I couldn't resist telling him, 'Aap Dhoni hain, mai Dahani hu.'"Dhoni's response was met with laughter, and the two shared a brief but memorable moment. After the match, Dahani approached Dhoni again, this time for a photograph. Dhoni obliged, and the image quickly went viral on social media."It was a dream come true for me," Dahani said. "Meeting Mahendra Singh Dhoni was an unforgettable experience."Dahani's admiration for Dhoni is a testament to the Indian legend's enduring legacy. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni continues to inspire and captivate fans around the globe.

Mohammed Siraj's resurgence has been a pivotal factor in Royal Challengers Bangalore's recent resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The pacer's impressive form has not only boosted RCB's chances but has also instilled confidence in the Indian team ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.Siraj's transformation was evident in his devastating spell against Gujarat Titans, where he claimed two wickets in the Power Play, dismissing Wriddhiman Saha and Shubman Gill. His figures of 2-0-9-2 were a testament to his newfound control and aggression.RCB assistant coach Adam Griffith attributed Siraj's resurgence to his ability to "swing the ball again." He praised Siraj's leadership qualities and his unwavering determination to take wickets. Griffith also highlighted the importance of Siraj's fitness and rhythm, which have been crucial to his success.Siraj's absence from the Sunrisers Hyderabad game due to a nine-day break may have contributed to his renewed focus and sharpness. Griffith emphasized the importance of rest for players, especially those who rely on rhythm and pace.Since his return from the break, Siraj has been in exceptional form, claiming wickets in each of his four matches. His performances against Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans have been particularly impressive.Griffith believes Siraj has struck a balance between rest and preparation. He noted that Siraj understands his body well and knows when he needs to push himself or take a break.Siraj's resurgence has had a positive impact on the entire RCB bowling unit. Youngster Yash Dayal has also impressed with his frugal and productive spells upfront. As a result, RCB has recorded three consecutive victories and has the lowest Power Play score in the IPL this season.Griffith attributed the team's success to their collective ability to hit a better line and attack the stumps. He emphasized the importance of challenging batters and forcing them to play aggressive shots.Siraj's impressive form is a welcome boost for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. His ability to swing the ball and take wickets in the Power Play will be crucial for India's success in the tournament.

Virat Kohli's all-around brilliance propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match on Saturday.Before the match, Kohli faced criticism from former cricketer Sunil Gavaskar for his comments on cricket experts. However, he silenced his critics with a blistering 42 off 27 balls, including four sixes, to help RCB chase down a modest target of 148.Kohli's innings was not just about his batting prowess. He also showcased his exceptional fielding skills, running out GT's Shahrukh Khan with a stunning one-handed throw. The effort left even his teammate Cameron Green in awe.RCB's bowlers had earlier restricted GT to 147, with Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal picking up two wickets each. David Miller and Shahrukh Khan provided some resistance with a 61-run partnership, but the Titans lacked a substantial innings to build a formidable total.RCB's chase got off to a flying start, with Kohli and captain Faf du Plessis adding 92 runs in just 35 balls for the opening wicket. Du Plessis played a blistering knock of 64 off 23 balls, hitting 10 fours and three sixes.However, RCB's middle order faltered, losing three wickets in quick succession. Kohli's dismissal in the 10th over triggered a collapse, but Glenn Maxwell (23) and Dinesh Karthik (14*) steadied the ship.Despite some nervous moments, RCB managed to cross the finish line with four wickets to spare. The victory lifted them to seventh place on the IPL table, keeping their playoff hopes alive.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a series of significant changes to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) that could reshape the tournament's landscape. These proposals, if approved, would aim to enhance the PSL's competitiveness and global appeal.One of the most notable changes being considered is shifting the league's schedule from its current December-February window to April-May. This move would align the PSL with the Indian Premier League (IPL), the world's most popular T20 league. The PCB believes that this would allow the PSL to "co-exist" with the IPL rather than "compete" with it.Another proposed change is the introduction of a marquee player rule. This would allow franchises to sign a single player outside the salary cap, potentially offering contracts worth over USD300,000. This move is aimed at attracting top international talent to the PSL and increasing its global visibility.The PCB is also considering moving the PSL playoffs to a neutral venue. The United Kingdom is being considered as a potential host, as it would provide a central location for fans from both Pakistan and other countries. This would create a more festive atmosphere and enhance the overall experience for spectators.These proposals are currently in the discussion stage, with a final decision expected to be made at a governing council meeting between the PCB and franchises in May. The PCB is eager to move the PSL away from its current crowded window, which clashes with several other T20 leagues and the international cricket calendar.The proposed changes are part of the PCB's broader strategy to elevate the PSL's status and make it a more competitive and attractive tournament. By aligning with the IPL, attracting top international talent, and creating a more fan-friendly experience, the PCB hopes to establish the PSL as a global cricketing powerhouse.

In a thrilling Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy encounter at Bristol's Seat Unique Stadium, Southern Vipers emerged victorious over Western Storm by a narrow margin of four runs. Charli Knott's career-best 102 from 112 balls proved pivotal for the Vipers, who posted a formidable 295 for 5.Knott dominated the innings, forming crucial partnerships with Maia Bouchier (34) and Georgia Adams (65). The Australian all-rounder reached her maiden century in the 35th over, showcasing her exceptional strokeplay. Freya Kemp's quickfire 44 not out further boosted the Vipers' total.Western Storm's chase got off to a shaky start as they lost openers Sophia Smale and Alex Griffiths early on. However, England captain Heather Knight and Fran Wilson steadied the ship with a 112-run stand for the third wicket. Sophie Luff and Dani Gibson then staged a remarkable alliance of 78 runs in just nine overs, setting up a dramatic finale.Both Luff and Gibson reached half-centuries, but their dismissals in quick succession left Storm needing 12 runs off the last over. Freya Davies and Georgia Adams bowled with composure under pressure, claiming two wickets apiece to secure the victory for the Vipers.Knott's outstanding performance earned her the Player of the Match award. Her ability to pierce the field and score at a brisk pace proved too much for the Storm bowlers. The Vipers' victory was a testament to their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian cricketer, has launched a scathing attack on Virat Kohli for his recent comments about critics. Kohli had stated that he doesn't pay attention to critics who question his strike rate and ability to play spin.Gavaskar, speaking ahead of the RCB vs GT match on Saturday, took exception to Kohli's remarks. He felt that such comments were a direct insult to the knowledge and experience of former cricketers who work as experts."Commentators questioned only when his strike rate was 118. I'm not too sure. I don't watch too many matches, so I don't know what the other commentators have said otherwise. But if you come and open and then have a strike of 118 when you get out in the 14th or the 15th over, I mean, if you want applause for that, that's a little bit different," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.Gavaskar also criticized Kohli for responding to outside noise if he didn't care about it. "All these guys talk about, 'oh we don't care about outside noise'. Accha! Then why are you replying to any outside noise or whatever it is. We all played a bit of cricket, not a lot of cricket. We don't have agendas. We speak about what we see. We don't necessarily have any likes and dislikes. Even if we have likes and dislikes, we actually speak on what is happening," Gavaskar said.Gavaskar even criticized IPL's official broadcasters for showing Kohli's interview time and again. "I hope Star Sports realizes that when that clip is shown, questioning the critics, the critics are your own commentators. For you to show the person belittling your own commentators, I'm not sure that's a great thing. You need to realize you have shown it enough times, everybody's got the message. I would be very disappointed if you show it once more."Gavaskar's comments have sparked a debate on the role of critics in sports. Some believe that critics have a right to express their opinions, while others feel that they should be more respectful of players.

Northern Diamonds emerged victorious in a thrilling Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy match against Central Sparks at Edgbaston, securing a narrow one-run victory in a nail-biting finish.Chasing a target of 216, Sparks looked poised to snatch victory in the final over, needing just four runs with three wickets in hand. However, Diamonds captain Hollie Armitage delivered an ice-nerved performance, dismissing all three remaining batters to secure her side's third win of the season.Diamonds had earlier posted a competitive 216, with Erin Burns leading the way with a resilient 49. Abi Glen provided a late cameo with an unbeaten 31, while Sparks' disciplined bowling attack shared the wickets.Sparks' chase got off to a solid start as Eve Jones and Abi Freeborn forged a century partnership for the second wicket. However, the Diamonds bowlers gradually tightened their grip, and the last nine wickets fell for just 103 runs.Katie George and Bethan Ellis briefly threatened to guide Sparks to victory, but Armitage's heroics in the final over proved decisive. She dismissed George for 35, trapped Ria Fackrell lbw, and ran out Grace Potts to seal the win.The match showcased the depth and competitiveness of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, with both teams displaying resilience and determination throughout. Diamonds' victory was a testament to their ability to perform under pressure, while Sparks will rue the missed opportunity to secure a valuable win.